What Are the Different Types of Chive Plant

Chives are a popular herb used in cooking and garnishing. They belong to the onion family and are known for their mild onion flavor. Chives are easy to grow, making them an excellent addition to any home garden. There are several types of chive plants available, each with unique characteristics. In this article, we will explore the different types of chive plants and their uses.

Common Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Common chives are the most popular type of chive plant. They are also known as onion chives or garden chives. These plants have long, slender leaves that grow up to 20 inches tall. The leaves are hollow and have a mild onion flavor, making them perfect for adding to salads, soups, and other dishes.

Common chives bloom in early summer with small, pinkish-purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies. These flowers are also edible and can be used as a garnish or added to salads.

Garlic Chives (Allium tuberosum)

Garlic chives, also known as Chinese chives or Asian chives, have a stronger flavor than common chives. They have flat leaves that look similar to grass and grow up to two feet tall. Garlic chives have a distinct garlic flavor that is perfect for use in stir-fries, dumplings, and other Asian dishes.

Garlic chives bloom in late summer with clusters of white flowers that resemble daisies. These flowers are also edible and can be used as a garnish or added to salads.

Siberian Chives (Allium nutans)

Siberian chives are a lesser-known type of chive plant. They have tall, slender stems that can grow up to three feet tall. The leaves are narrow and have a milder flavor than common chives. Siberian chives are perfect for adding to salads, dips, and other dishes.

Siberian chives bloom in mid-summer with delicate, lavender-pink flowers that attract bees and butterflies. These flowers are also edible and can be used as a garnish or added to salads.

Giant Siberian Chives (Allium ledebourianum)

Giant Siberian chives are a larger variety of Siberian chives. They have tall, sturdy stems that can grow up to four feet tall. The leaves are broader than common chives and have a milder flavor. Giant Siberian chives are ideal for use in soups, stews, and other dishes.

Giant Siberian chives bloom in mid-summer with large, pinkish-purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies. These flowers are also edible and can be used as a garnish or added to salads.

Onion Chive (Allium fistulosum)

Onion chives, also known as Welsh onion or spring onion, are a type of chive plant that has long green stalks with small white bulbs at the base. They have a mild onion flavor that is perfect for adding to soups, stews, and other dishes.

Onion chives bloom in mid-summer with small, white flowers that attract bees and butterflies. These flowers are also edible and can be used as a garnish or added to salads.

FAQ

How do I grow chive plants?

Chive plants are easy to grow and require minimal care. They prefer well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Chive plants should be planted in full sun or partial shade and watered regularly.

How do I harvest chive plants?

Chive plants can be harvested by cutting the leaves at the base of the stem with scissors or pruning shears. It is best to harvest chive plants in the morning when the leaves are at their freshest.

How do I store chive plants?

Fresh chive plants can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Dried chive leaves can be stored in an airtight container for up to six months.

Can I grow chive plants indoors?

Yes, chive plants can be grown indoors in a sunny window or under a grow light. They require well-draining soil and regular watering.

In conclusion, chives are a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. There are several types of chive plants available, each with unique characteristics. Common chives, garlic chives, Siberian chives, giant Siberian chives, and onion chives are all excellent choices for any home garden or culinary enthusiast.